Abstract:

Background: Infertility is a worldwide health problem. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a toxic agent and can induce endocrinal and reproductive disruption. Omega-3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid with anti-oxidative effects. This study aimed to investigate whether omega-3could protectthe testes against polyvinyl chloride (PVC) – induced disruption and preserve fertility in adult male rats and if so, what is the possible mechanism?Design:Thirty-five rats were used, they were divided into five groups; control, corn oil, omega -3, PVC and PVC & omega-3. Oral treatment was continued for 40 days. Serum testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and sperm parameters were evaluated. Total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), catalase (CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were also assessed in testicular homogenate. Testes were subjected to histological examination by the light and electron microscopes.Results: The study revealed that PVC decreased significantly the fertility hormones levels, TAOC and CAT activity, sperm count, vitality, motility, increased MDA and the sperm abnormal forms. In addition, alternation of the normal histological structure of the testes was found. Omega-3 improved PVC-induced alterations in the previous parameters.Conclusions: PVC reduced fertility potential in male rats, probably through lipid peroxidation of the testes and reduction of the antioxidant capacity. While omega-3 could protect the testes from the PVCinducedsuch toxicities due to its antioxidant properties.

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